A Memorable Evening at the Lodge of Research

Monday 27th November 2025 was a special night for the Lodge of Research (www.research2429.org.uk). Members of the lodge gathered in anticipation of the installation of their new Master, John Townsend, marking the start of an exciting year in the Lodge’s history.

John was initiated in Surbiton Lodge No. 2146 back in 1966, continuing a family legacy that began in 1886. Over the years, John has worn the Master’s collar multiple times, including in 1996 to honour the centenary of his grandfather’s tenure. When moving to Leicestershire, he became a cornerstone of St Wilfrid’s Lodge No. 8350, serving in key roles and helping to establish its Study Group. His service extends to the Royal Arch, where he was Exalted in 1979 and went on to serve as First Principal several times, earning Provincial honours in both Surrey and Leicestershire & Rutland. Truly, a lifetime of commitment.

After his installation by Dr Andy Green, John delivered his inaugural lecture: “First Impressions of Freemasonry in Bulgaria after the Communist Era.” Drawing on personal visits and lodge meetings in Bulgaria, he shared a fascinating story of revival. Once suppressed under the “Law for Protection of the Nation” in 1940, Freemasonry re-emerged in 1992 with the founding of the Grand Lodge of Bulgaria. Later came rival Grand Lodges, a historic union in 2001, and recognition by the United Grand Lodge of England in 2004. Today, Bulgarian Freemasonry thrives under the United Grand Lodge of Bulgaria, a testament to resilience and brotherhood.

The evening concluded with John investing Rev. Clive Watts and Robert Crane as his Wardens, setting the tone for a year of research, learning, and fellowship.

Looking ahead, the Lodge is excited to host an official Prestonian Lecture in 2026, delivered by Daniel Johnson on the intriguing theme: “King Solomon’s Temple in Myth and Ritual.”

Here’s to a year of discovery and shared knowledge.